Virtual reality isn’t just for gamers—it’s becoming a powerful tool to help seniors stay connected, engaged, and mentally active in today’s digital world. We sat down with Berwick’s very own virtual reality expert, Franklin Tejada, a valued member of our Community Relations & Maintenance teams at Berwick Royal Oak, to learn more about his passion, how he got started and how he sees this technology impacting the lives of people living in our communities.
What first sparked your interest in virtual reality?
I’ve always been fascinated by technology that brings people closer together in meaningful ways. The very first time I tried VR a few years ago, I realized it wasn’t just about games — it was about creating experiences that can teach, inspire, and even heal. That moment lit a spark in me, and ever since, I’ve been exploring how VR can enhance education, training, and wellness.
Are there any VR projects or experiences that have been especially meaningful to you?
Yes, absolutely. One project especially close to my heart was a Public Speaking Simulator, built to help people practice giving presentations in front of a virtual audience. Watching how it reduced anxiety and built genuine confidence was incredible. More recently, developing immersive experiences for seniors has been profoundly meaningful. The curiosity and joy on their faces is something I’ll never forget.
How would you explain VR to someone who’s never tried it before?
I’d describe it as stepping into a story instead of just watching it. In VR you don’t only see a scene — you live it. Whether you’re walking through a beautiful landscape, learning a new skill, or playing a game, VR gives you the feeling of being there.
What is your favorite VR experience or game right now?
At the moment, I’m really enjoying Wander, which lets you explore the world through Google Street View in VR. It sounds simple, but it’s incredibly powerful — you can revisit the streets of your childhood, explore world landmarks, or just take a calming walk somewhere new.
If you could design your dream VR experience, what would it be?
My dream would be creating an intergenerational storytelling platform where seniors can share their life stories in immersive environments. Future generations could “step into” those memories, experience the past through their eyes, and build a deeper sense of connection.
How can VR benefit seniors?
VR opens up doors that would otherwise remain closed. It can reduce isolation by taking people to places and experiences they can’t physically reach anymore. It stimulates the mind, provides relaxation, and sparks conversations when residents share what they’ve just seen or felt together.
Have you seen VR make a real difference in someone’s life?
Yes — and those moments stay with you. I’ve seen seniors revisit meaningful places, like their childhood towns or countries they once traveled to. One person told me, “I never thought I’d see this place again.” The joy and gratitude in that moment were unforgettable.
What are you most looking forward to at Berwick with residents and VR?
What excites me most is creating moments of wonder. Whether it’s laughter during a fun game or the quiet awe of watching a sunset, these experiences brighten the day and add meaning. I also look forward to developing a program where VR becomes a regular and meaningful part of life here.
How can VR be used to build empathy or connection?
VR lets us walk in someone else’s shoes. For example, you can experience what it’s like to navigate the world with vision loss, or immerse yourself in another culture’s daily life. That kind of perspective has the power to grow compassion and empathy in a way no other medium really can.
Are there emerging VR trends you find especially exciting?
Definitely. Social VR spaces, where people can meet and share experiences from anywhere in the world, are becoming much more dynamic. I’m also excited about advances in hand tracking and eye tracking, which make interactions feel seamless and natural. This will be especially beneficial for seniors, because it makes the tech feel less like a device and more like an extension of themselves.
Virtual reality is opening up incredible opportunities for seniors to learn, connect, and experience the world in new ways. With passionate team members like Franklin leading the charge, the future at Berwick is full of innovation, empathy, and wonder.